Disease: undernutrition

Efficacy of prebiotic, probiotic and synbiotic administration in improving growth in children aged 0–59 months living in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis

This comprehensive review examined whether giving children special dietary supplements containing beneficial bacteria and their food sources (prebiotics, probiotics, or synbiotics) helps them grow better in low-income countries. The analysis of eight studies found that these supplements may help children gain weight, especially those who are malnourished, though the evidence remains limited. More research is needed to fully understand whether these supplements are truly effective for promoting healthy growth in young children.

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Mycelium: A Nutrient-Dense Food To Help Address World Hunger, Promote Health, and Support a Regenerative Food System

Mycelium, the thread-like root structure of fungi, could help solve world hunger by providing nutritious, sustainable protein in just days. Unlike meat production which takes months to years, mycelium grows rapidly using minimal water and produces far less greenhouse gas. Early research suggests it may help lower cholesterol and improve blood sugar control while supporting a healthier planet.

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Effectiveness and Suitability of Oyster Mushroom in Improving the Nutritional Value of Maize Flour Used in Complementary Foods

This study examined how adding oyster mushroom powder to maize flour can improve nutrition for young children in developing countries. When maize flour was mixed with 30-50% oyster mushroom flour, the protein content nearly tripled and mineral content significantly improved. The resulting porridge was nutritious enough to help prevent malnutrition in children transitioning to solid foods, though a 30% mushroom blend provided the best balance of nutrition and taste.

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Co-existence of potentially sustainable indigenous food systems and poor nutritional status in Ho indigenous community, India: an exploratory study

This study found that the Ho indigenous people of India have access to hundreds of nutritious traditional foods but still experience widespread malnutrition. Even though their indigenous foods are rich in essential minerals and vitamins, factors like unpredictable rainfall, shift to growing only rice instead of diverse crops, and the availability of cheap processed foods in markets prevent people from using these nutritious foods. The research highlights the need to support traditional food systems and farming practices to improve both health and environmental sustainability in indigenous communities.

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Relationship between household food insecurity and minimum dietary diversity among pregnant women attending antenatal care at public health facilities in Fiche town, Oromia region, Central Ethiopia: A facility-based cross-sectional study

This study examined how food insecurity affects the variety of foods pregnant women eat in Ethiopia. Researchers found that only about one-third of pregnant women ate a diverse diet containing enough different food groups. The study showed that women from food-secure households and those who received nutritional counseling during prenatal care were much more likely to eat a varied diet. The findings suggest that helping pregnant women access diverse nutritious foods and providing proper nutrition education during healthcare visits could significantly improve their dietary quality.

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